Austria

At a glance

Austria sits at the crossroads of Central Europe, once the Habsburg Empire’s seat of power that ruled Europe for over 6 centuries. While Habsburg power ended after World War I, Austria remains a prominent country. Today it is known for its idyllic and majestic landscape of mountains, green valleys, rivers and storybook villages. Along with such a landscape are the cultural centers of Vienna and Salzburg. The elegant city of Vienna reveals the glory days of the Habsburg Empire, featuring the Hofburg Imperial Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and impressive Opera House. Salzburg, home of Mozartand The Sound of Music, has Europe’s largest intact medieval fortress overlooking the cobblestone streets of its historic Old Town.

Why cyclists love it

Austria is a cycling paradise with its extensive network of well-marked, well-maintained paths and breathtaking scenery. The varied landscape provides options ranging from flat and rolling hills ideal for families to more intense riding in the Alps ideal for serious riders. The most popular bike path in Europe rides along Austria’s major river, the

Top regions

The Alps region of Austria is famous for its blue-sky days, fresh mountain air and picturesque scenery. Sight to see include the Krimml Waterfalls, Europe’s highest, quaint farming villages and medieval towns, all framed by mile-high mountains.More on Austrian Alps bike tours >

Lake Constance is home to Europe's most popular cycling route. The lake borders three countries – Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. You'll be surrounded by the breathtaking views of a turquoise lake against the backdrop of the snow-capped Alps.More on Lake Constance bike tours >

The Danube River flows from Passau, Germany across the border to Vienna, on its way from the Black Forest to the Black Sea. Following the Danube River on its way to Vienna is the Danube Bike Path, a dedicated, paved biking path. A favorite for cycle tourists, especially families, the path provides many "bail out" options, allowing cyclists to hop on a boat or train at any point for any number of sightseeing opportunities.More on Danube bike tours >

Salzkammergut (Salzburg Lake) features over 76 crystal lakes, rock faces and imposing mountains. The region includes Hallstatt, one of Austria’s most picturesque villages overlooking Lake Hallstatt. Biking is a great way to experience the scenery of this region.More on Salzburg Lakes bike tours >

Top tours

Offering carefree cycling on a dedicated bike path, this tour travels from Passau, Germany to Vienna and is ideal for families. The tour is self-guided and typically lasts 8 days/7nights, with many variations available (including staying at one location and doing day trips).Tour details >

This tour designed especially for families offers shorter daily distances on the Danube Bike Path and family-friendly hotels. The tour includes many activities and attractions for children, including a fairy-tale ride on the grotto railway, adventure park and ride on the giant Ferris wheel in Vienna.Tour details >

A boat with cozy cabins, restaurant and panorama-bar provide a relaxing atmosphere after daily rides on the Danube Bike Path. Highlights of this tour include the Danube Flood Plain National Park, Linz and the World Heritage Site, Wachau.Tour details >

This tour travels through the Salzburg Lake District, known for its high mountains, green meadows and lakes. Trails are well marked and vary from flat to hilly to mountainous. On most days, you can have the option of either biking or hiking through the regions parks.Tour details >

Link This tour departs from Salzburg, heading into the Salzkammergut region. After cycling through the hilly lake-district, reaching Linz, the tour changes into a river tour biking along the Danube until you reach Vienna.Tour details >

This loop tour on the Tauern Bike Path starts in Salzburg following the Saalach River to Kaprun, where you spend two nights. From Kaprun, you head by bus into the Alps to Krimml, the highest waterfalls in Europe. Cyclists then return to Salzburg along the Salzach River.Tour details >